How can I get my toddler to move from the potty to the loo?

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Toddlers often prefer to use a potty instead of a toilet. A potty may be easier for him to sit on, as it's the right size for him. Or he may be frightened of sitting on the toilet in case he falls in.

You can help to encourage him to use the toilet when he's ready by making sure that the toilet is comfortable and easy for him to use. A box or footstep will prevent him from perching precariously on the edge of the seat and will help him to feel secure.

If he doesn't like the training seat, you could try a different one, or see if he'd prefer to sit on the seat without it instead. Some designs are a bit wobbly and no more comfortable than sitting on the proper seat.

He may be happier to sit on the toilet with you there, or he may prefer total privacy. Ask him. Let him practise sitting on the loo while he has his clothes on, without the pressure to wee or poo.

If he's scared to sit on the seat, encourage him to sit on the covered toilet with the seat lid down. Then encourage him to sit with the seat lid raised, but still with his clothes on. Praise and reward him for doing this.

You may find that your child is happier to use the toilet if you distract him while he's on it. Try blowing bubbles, or reading a story, or playing a game.

Last reviewed: August 2012

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Comments

Potty training can be so hard, I've also been there. But luckily I stumbled upon a website and tried a 3 day method I found there. That really worked great, wish I knew of that earlier.
Can really recommend it to every parent that is struggling out there!
http://www.pottytrainingboysgirls.org

My son and I used these helpful tips at first but even after using them and many other resources we still had a hard time training my grandson. I came across this site that showed my son and I how to potty train his son within three days and it was even guaranteed. . . There were some great techniques and helpful information there that I felt compelled to share with others. We've been trying to potty train his son for the last six weeks with no luck, Googling potty training was turning up outdated techniques and some of them we believe were even harmful. Until we came across this site, that a friend of mines told me about and within three days it worked. We followed the instructions and "eureka" we found a successful formula. I just felt that others might have been in the same place me and my son were last week. So I hope this helps and good luck with your training.... O' almost forgot here's the site: www.ThreeDaysPottyTraining.com

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